Health Encyclopedia

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Definition

Vitamin B12 helps in red blood cell formation, production of DNA, and function of the nervous system.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can occur when the body needs more vitamin B12 than it receives from the diet. Alternatively, the condition may occur when the body is unable to use the vitamin B12 from the diet. A shortage of vitamin B12 can lead to
anemia
. Anemia occurs when levels of red blood cells are abnormally low and there is insufficient delivery of oxygen by red blood cells from the lungs to the cells of the body.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
Treatment
options include the following:

Oral Vitamin B12 Supplement

This treatment consists of high doses of an oral vitamin B12 supplement.

Vitamin B12 Injections

The doctor may advise injections of vitamin B12 into a muscle. Injections of vitamin B12 may be given frequently at first. When blood tests show improvement, the injections may be given on a monthly basis.

Treatment With Antibiotics

This type of medication may be needed in cases where bacterial overgrowth in the intestines exists. The bacteria compete with the body to absorb the vitamin B12 in the intestines.

Intranasal Vitamin B12

The doctor may advise a supplement of vitamin B12 that is placed in the nose.

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of developing a deficiency of vitamin B12, take the following steps:

Avoid long-term over-consumption of alcohol.

As directed by your doctor, take a daily supplement containing vitamin B12.

As directed by your doctor, give vitamin B12 to your breastfed baby if you are a vegan or vegetarian.

Undergo testing if your doctor suspects you have a bacterial infection.

Have your doctor monitor your health closely if you are taking certain medications:

Biguanides

Cimetidine

Acid-reducing medications

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.